The event will last until next Saturday and will offer the opportunity to identify common objectives, structures and steps to follow in the formation of research teams to combat these scourges.

According to the Attorney General of Panama, Javier Caraballo, the gathering has a special significance given the increase in the arrival of migrants, up to over 330,000 so far this year, as they pass through the Darien jungle on their way to the USA. He also emphasized the need to tackle transnational criminal gangs who harass and abuse those who arrive from South America.

Last Monday, authorities from the United Nations Organization called for a more resolute fight against organized crime and gangs, such as the Clan del Golfo, who controls irregular migration.

According to the head of mission of the International Organization for Migration in Panama, Giuseppe Loprete, these groups even manage to bring in travelers from Asia who, deceived, cross and face numerous threats in the dangerous jungle of Darién, on the border with Colombia. In his opinion, this emergency situation that the entire region is experiencing, requires stronger and more coordinated cooperation from all those involved, including the issuing, transit and destination countries.

The official also mentioned the lack of access to accurate and timely information throughout the process as one of the main reasons why migrants cross the Darién jungle.

Loprete urged the states to continue practicing a regional, comprehensive and collaborative approach, and reiterated support for responses addressing international obligations and objectives of peace and sustainable development, in full respect for the human rights of people in situations of mobility.

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